WWE Didn’t Invite Hulk Hogan’s Daughter to Tribute Shows, She Affirms

Brooke Hogan, daughter of the late wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, has publicly addressed criticism regarding her absence from WWE’s televised tributes following her father’s passing. She asserts that she was never invited to participate in the memorial segments aired on WWE programming.

Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, died on July 24, 2025, at 71, after suffering cardiac arrest. WWE honored him during episodes of both SmackDown and Monday Night Raw, featuring a 10-bell salute and emotional video packages.

Brooke, who has maintained a fraught relationship with her father in recent years, responded to backlash on her Instagram Story on July 30. She wrote that fans should not chastise her absence because “@WWE did not extend an invite”.

Her brother Nick Hogan did attend the Raw tribute held on July 28 and was visibly emotional during the broadcast. Alongside his wife Tana Lea, he was singled out for his participation in the tribute.

In an earlier Instagram post, Brooke offered insight into the dynamics of their relationship. She explained that the estrangement was not tied to one event, rather, it unfolded through a series of private conversations and moments. According to Brooke, she had supported him emotionally and professionally, urging him to rest amid concerns over his health, but eventually felt he chose a different path that took a toll on their bond.

Brooke also revealed a legal move she made in 2023: she requested to have her name removed from her father’s will, stating she did not trust those around him and sought to avoid a messy inheritance situation. Still, she is poised to receive life insurance proceeds, which she intends to allocate for her twins’ college education.

Brooke is the mother of six-month-old twins, Oliver and Molly, who she shares with husband Steven Olesky. Hogan’s death was publicly confirmed by WWE shortly after being reported by TMZ, following the cardiac arrest at his Florida home.

Although WWE has yet to respond to her allegations, Brooke’s firm statement has focused attention on familial estrangement rather than a lack of familial love. She emphasized that despite physical separation, she and her father maintained a spiritual connection. She went so far as to say she felt his departure before she received official word of his passing.

In contrast, her brother Nick, who has described Hulk as both his father and mentor, was clearly part of the official WWE memorial and publicly honored him in an Instagram statement.